Heritage

The Fernite Heritage

We’ve been producing quality knives in Sheffield for nearly two hundred years.

The contemporary Fernite brand is built on a historic legacy of Sheffield steel excellence. The name derives from its founder, Joseph Fearnehough who established Joseph Fearnehough and Sons Ltd in 1832.

The earliest reference to Sheffield’s involvement in crafting blades and cutlery comes from 1297 when the town received its charter, and its impressive reputation continued to flourish in the centuries that followed.

Sheffield became world famous for its steel production and manufacturing – with the city’s knife industry at the heart of its success.

The company evolved through a number of changes throughout the 20th Century, giving its name along the way to the ‘Fernite’ trademark which came to represent true Sheffield quality in machine knives.

In 1969, the company moved to its present site in Darnall and replaced the old company name in 1996 with the Fernite brand.

In recent years Fernite’s factory has been comprehensively upgraded. The company has invested in the latest advanced manufacturing technology, including precision grinding and milling machinery, CAD/CAM systems and state-of-the-art laser cutting equipment.

This investment in technology has been matched by investment in Fernite’s team

The company is honoured to carry the ‘Made in Sheffield’ marque which has become ever more exclusive and prized in the industry.

Fernite is proud that it continues to flourish and to uphold its fine heritage, reputation and enduring relationships with customers worldwide.